Introduction

The feste of Koenigsmacker one of the three festes (Guentrange, Illange and Koenigsmacker) is carried out by the Germans between 1899 and 1914 to extend the fortifications of Metz to Thionville and the Luxembourg border. Koenigsmacker (end of the right wing of the strengthened area) is the last operational startup and will remain unfinished.

Its principal armament is consisted 4 guns of 10cm under turret.

It is made up of 3 barracks (1230 men), 7 observatories and 10 shelters.

After the war of 1914-1918 and the return of Alsace-Lorraine to France, it is integrated into the Magiot Line: RF of Metz, SF of Thionville.

Above: some furnished informations by our friend Remi Fontbonne (see its book on the German fortifications of Metz and Thionville 1871-1918, Serpenoise editions). RE Cima

Points and barbed wires

Bell of observation

Ventilation

Metal scale

Grids

Tree having pushed in the grids

Crumbling

Crumbling caused by an explosion

Frontage

Emergency exit

Gallery of help

Emergency exit

Mass of scree by an explosion

Tank

Entry of quartering

Warning

Caution! The visit of these places of memory is strictly prohibited. Never to only go there and without adequate material. These places are empty of any weapon or another object in bond with the two world wars. The state of the buildings is variable according to the places; some threaten to crumble and much are flooded.

Jean-Claude BECKER

The photographs of Jean-Claude BECKER (which we thank warmly) particularly give an idea of outsides and state of degradation of the feste.